2018 conference paper
Geomorphic identification of physical habitat features in a large, altered river system
E3S Web of Conferences, 40.
Contributors: L. Guertault n , G. Fox n & S. Brewer *
open access via www.e3s-conferences.org (publisher PDF)
UN Sustainable Development Goal Categories
15. Life on Land
(Web of Science; OpenAlex)
Source: ORCID
Added: July 27, 2023
Altered flow regimes in streams can significantly affect ecosystems and disturb ecological processes, leading to species loss and extinction. Many river management projects use stream classification and habitat assessment approaches to design practical solutions to reverse or mitigate adverse effects of flow regime alteration on stream systems. The objective of this study was to develop a methodology to provide a primary identification of physical habitats in an 80-km long segment of the Canadian River in central Oklahoma. The methodology relied on basic geomorphic variables describing the stream and its floodplain that were derived from aerial imagery and Lidar data using Geographic Information Systems. Geostatistical tests were implemented to delineate habitat units. This approach based on high resolution data and did not require in-site inspection provided a relatively refined habitat delineation, consistent with visual observations. Future efforts will focus on validation via field surveys and coupling with hydro-sedimentary modeling to provide a tool for environmental flow decisions.